The Washington Symphony Orchestra: A Legacy of Music and a New Chapter Ahead

The WSO was born out of a dream shared by passionate musicians and music lovers in Washington County who envisioned an orchestra that could both entertain and inspire. Initially composed of volunteer musicians, the orchestra quickly gained popularity through its accessible and varied programming, which featured everything from classical masterpieces to contemporary works and pops pieces. Since 2002, the WSO has grown in both size and reputation, attracting accomplished musicians from across the region.

In 2004, Yugo Ikach was appointed Principal Conductor and Music Director, bringing with him a wealth of experience and a dynamic vision for the orchestra's future. Under Ikach’s leadership, the WSO has expanded its repertoire, introduced new educational initiatives and become a key player in the region's arts scene. The orchestra’s commitment to inclusivity and innovation has remained strong, ensuring that every concert offers something special for audiences of all ages.

The Washington Symphony Orchestra is gearing up for one of its most beloved annual traditions: Ho Ho Ho with the WSO. This festive event, which has become a favorite among visitors and locals alike, is scheduled for multiple performances in December at the Olin Fine Arts Center on the Washington & Jefferson College campus. The concert will feature a heartwarming selection of holiday classics, seasonal favorites, and even a few surprises, all performed by the talented musicians of the WSO.

The concert will include performances of well-loved songs such as “You’re a Mean One, Mr. Grinch”, “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, and excerpts from The Polar Express, alongside popular symphonic pieces such as selections from Tchaikovsky’s The Nutcracker Suite. The performance will also feature guest vocalists and The All-Star High School Choir.

Tickets for Ho Ho Ho with the WSO are already on sale and can be purchased online through the WSO's website. 

In addition to the start of the holiday concert series, the symphony has one more big pierce of exciting news: its new website and refreshed brand is scheduled to launch soon. The new website is funded by the Washington County Community foundation and will offer an improved user experience and enhanced functionality to make it even easier for users to learn about upcoming concerts, buy tickets, learn about the symphony's musicians and engage with educational programming. 

The refreshed logo, on the other hand, both pays homage to the past and points towards the future of the WSO. The rebrand is funded by the Washington County Tourism Promotion Agency and will aid the symphony in leading the way to a deeper and more vibrant arts and culture scene in the county, with a new color palette, font and updated graphics all in the works. 

The WSO’s new branding and website come at an exciting time for the orchestra, which has ambitious plans for the coming year. With a robust concert schedule that includes both classical and contemporary programming, educational outreach and community partnerships, the WSO is poised to continue its tradition of artistic excellence while expanding its reach to new audiences.

As Yugo Ikach reflects on the orchestra’s journey and looks ahead to the future, he remains committed to the WSO’s core mission: “Music has the power to unite, uplift, and inspire. Our goal is to continue sharing that gift with as many people as possible, and we’re excited for all that lies ahead for the WSO and our community.”

With a new digital home, an exciting concert lineup, and a commitment to community engagement, the Washington Symphony Orchestra is entering a new chapter—one filled with promise, creativity, and, of course, music.